Would you ever design a bathroom around your children? We're not talking about painting it a fun color or adding a toothbrush holder in a wacky shape, we mean literally installing things at new heights, and adding fixtures that are more kid friendly. One family did and here's how it all went down:
Although there's no photographic evidence of this makeover, the folks over at HGTV are quite specific on the products and changes that were made to the bathroom that received a kid-friendly makeover. The homeowners wanted to help their children with bathroom basics, keep things safe and even save energy in the process. The adjustments they made included:
• A motion sensor for the overhead light
• Automatic faucet with shut off
• Easy close toilet seats
Although other customizations such as lowering cabinets, installing footstools or making a larger space between walls and toilets that make wiping baby bums easier are great, the above renovations, although pricey are good additions to a house for not just kids, but adults too.
Check out all the details on this renovation over at HGTV where you'll find links for product and hear what worked out and what didn't (psst, motion sensors don't always work!).
(Image: Flickr member gagilas licensed for use by Creative Commons)
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I think this is a great idea. With a 4 year-old and two 2 year-olds, I've been dreaming about adding a real, working mini toilet, too. I am dreading potty training the twins with only one bathroom in the house.
We have several motion sensor light switches and they are great. And not just in bathrooms. We have one in our foyer so that the light turns on when you open the door. Really handy when you've got your hands full of groceries and kids and the house is dark.
I don't get it. Small portable potties are easily purchased, used, and given away. Why go to the expense of installing something with such a limited life span? Both of my kids are fully potty trained (just turned 2 and 4) and both prefer to poop on the little potty because it feels more secure. Plus you can put them anywhere which is convenient in the begining.
Small potties are empowering and give kids great control but they are cheap, too.
I run a daycare in my home for kids up to 4 years old. I've potty trained literally dozens of kids. I think in some ways this is a brilliant idea. But, I'm not sure I want newly potty trained kiddos trekking off to the bathroom to take care of business alone. I kinda like the fact that they have to yell, "LIZ! Can you turn the light on?!" It clues me in to the fact that a two year old needs to go potty and I can monitor the progress. I have a step stool in the bathroom for washing hands. They learn how to use the faucet - which way is hot, warm and cold. Once they hit 3 or 4, they're on their own and doing great anyway, so for a year's time, it seems a bit extravagant. You can buy a light switch extender for little ones for $10 and take it off when you don't need it anymore. I'm just of a mindset that we shouldn't make life so convenient for our little ones all the time.
I don't have anything to add. I just love the photo with this post.
Ooh, I've never heard of a light switch extender. Something I'll be looking into!
It's all I can do to keep my baby from playing in the toilet. Arrgh.
Also love the photo.
I just want to squish all the little pudgy places on that little one. Love that age!